Full Service Custom Framing Studio For Sale

Business description

Upscale Clientele—Loyal 50% Repeat Business!
Established in 2002, this is the only exclusive, truly custom frame shop in Springdale, Arkansas catering to both local and regional customers who value proper design, color selection and expert framing execution. When quality, service and turn-around time matter, art connoisseurs have come to realize they are getting it all here at competitive prices—often below department-style framing kiosks. Once a client has experienced the difference, they will never again consider going elsewhere with their memories and treasures.

This retail framing location serves individuals as well as corporate representatives desiring a full-service presentation for their objects—whether they are framed prints, limited edition printed art, posters, valuable and/or sentimental relics, canvas paintings and art on fabrics. Services provide aesthetic design, functional design, full-service mounting, full-service manufacturing of frames (from moulding length), mat cutting and finishing.

All custom orders are meticulously recorded for size, shape, matting type/color and frame style—further building the repeat customer relationship. Clientele include: schools, churches, the University of Arkansas, interior decorators, Ducks Unlimited and many others. With a data base of over 1,600 contacts, targeted direct mail campaigns can be prepared with ease and efficiency.

Equipment includes a Wizard Mat Cutter, which is computer-driven by Wizard Computer software. The Wizard system leases for $425 per month, and the option to continue the lease transfers with the sale of the business. The computer package includes a Dell 4400, FullCalc frame ordering software, POS operation software, QuickBooks Pro, full Microsoft Office software, credit card terminal, fax machine, gift card terminal, POS cash register, cash drawer, Star receipt printer and HP Deskjet 960c Printer. The fixtures include an art-search hutch, bookshelf, display panel grids, glass shelf display, island, magnetic board, multiple easels, moulding racks, and print bins. The framing equipment includes various cutters, hand tools, Cassesse frame joiner, the Phaedra Saw System, Seal-Heat-Press, Morso Chopper, air compressor with accessories, print and canvas. Moulding with a retail value of over $80,000 is also included in this sale along with various sizes of glass in clear, conservation clear, non-glare and conservation non-glare. All basic framing supplies are on hand including tapes, hardware, etc.

Presently, the owner manages and performs all day-to-day operations of the business—including framing, sales, retail functions, basic accounting and bookkeeping, purchasing, inventory management and advertising design. While the owner operator model is sufficient for most times of the year, certain seasons and holidays may require additional part time help.

Property information

Real Estate:

Lease

Lease terms:

This frame shop is located in approximately 1,000 sqft with an attractive lease arrangement. The square footage is minimal for this type of operation and part of the framing stock is kept in off-site storage. The leasing neighbor runs a print shop. Relocation of the business is entirely feasible.

Location:

Location in Northwest Arkansas places this business ideally in the center of North America and in the middle of an art conscious community—from the loyal patrons of the Walton Art Center to contributors to the world-renown art museum Crystal Bridges (scheduled to open in fall 2009). “War Eagle Weekend” is the granddaddy of the nation’s arts and crafts shows bringing in millions of art aficionados to over 13 independent arts/crafts shows held each spring and fall in Northwest Arkansas. Photographic subject abounds in an area filled with the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Consistently voted one of the “most livable” parts of the country with one of the top-performing and fastest-growing economies, NWA is home to corporate giants like Wal-Mart, Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt Transport Services, as well as the University of Arkansas.

Other information

Expansion potential:

A new owner could increase sales by expanding and consistently maintaining the store’s hours. The owner is limited as the only employee with pressing family obligations. Phone book advertising is exclusively featured in the Community Phone Book. Dedication to quarterly mailings would go far to build brand awareness and loyalty. Collaboration and referrals with interior designers and photographers would go far to increase revenue and awareness. As an independent studio with strong loyalty, this model is primed for expansion to neighboring Northwest Arkansas communities.

Competition / Market:

There are no independent custom framing shops in Springdale. The customer list increases daily, fueled by mediocre experiences with “big-box service.”

Support & training:

Seller is willing to stay on as a manager for up to two years. Additionally, two-weeks of training will be provided at no charge to the new management.

Reasons for selling:

Divorce has complicated the owner’s ability to build this business.

Furniture / Fixtures value:

$33,330 (included in the asking price)

Inventory / Stock value:

$30,400 (included in the asking price)